Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain in North America is the second most common reason for people to take time off of work. The lower back is comprised of the five lumbar vertebrae of the spine. Because the vertebrae are stacked, they provide more support and protect the spinal cord. The spinal cord is made up of bundles of nerves that will provide the lower body with feel and a connection to the brain centre. Thus, injuries that pinch the nerves, break this connection and can often become quite painful. Between each of the vertebrae are intervetebral sacs that appear like donuts. These discs provide a cushion between the vertebrae so they can absorb shock and so they don’t move bone on bone.

The most common causes of lower back injuries are associated with deterioration of the spine. This can involve either the vertebrae themselves or the intervetebral sacs. Wearing of the spine can cause pain and eventually possible nerve impingement. Furthermore, Too much pressure on the intervertebral discs can cause bulging of the discs. Nerves can also become impinged. One of the most common nerves that becomes impinged is the Sciatic nerve. This is a nerve that runs down the leg, so people may often feel pain radiating from the lower back down as low as the heel. This is a very common problem among pregnant women.

Some injuries associated with low back pain include:

• Cauda Equina Syndrome
• Sciatica
• Slipped Disc
• Ankylosing Spondylosis
• Lumbar Strain/Sprain
• Nerve Irritation
• Bony Encroachment
• Lumbar Radiculopathy

Many injuries are caused from degeneration which in most cases cannot be avoided with age, However, many issues can be prevented if detected in the arly stages. Lower back and abdominal strength is crucial for preventing lower back pain.